Dorothy Retzel, Longtime Hinsdale Businesswoman, 'Gave Much to Her Community'

Editor's Note: Longtime Hinsdale business owner and former Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce board member Dorothy Retzel died on July 21 at the age of 99.

She ran Retzel Jewelry with her husband, Arthur, for 37 years.

Respects can be paid at Adolf Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 7000 S. Madison St. in Willowbrook, on Wednesday, July 25, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The family of Dorothy Retzel sent the following obituary to Patch.

Dorothy Retzel, daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, business owner, volunteer, friend. She has long been a familiar face in this community.

After marriage, Arthur Retzel Jewelry at 10 East Hinsdale Avenue became a reality. Arthur and Dorothy came to be known for their friendly smiles and high-quality jewelry from 1939 to 1976.

During that time they were also involved and became quite accomplished with prized show horses and dogs.

Dorothy has given much to her community. As a Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce member, her voice offered many insights into Hinsdale’s history and helped shape it’s future.

With her involvement in the Women's Club of Hinsdale, her charity side showed with their hand-made stuffed bears given to children in emergency rooms at Hinsdale and La Grange Hospitals. She was first-seat-front in all their bus trips.

As a women of strong faith, she was a member of of Hinsdale for 79 years. All knew her for her warm smile every Sunday.